Hong Kong
Photo requirements for passports, visas, and ID cards. Includes dimensions, background rules, and biometric requirements for 1 document type.
Helpful pages for document photos in Hong Kong
Use these pages to move from country-level requirements to a specific document format, troubleshooting help, and print guidance.
Main document requirements
Open the main document requirements page for this country to see dimensions, background rules, and face-position guidance.
Why photos get rejected
Fix the most common background, framing, and expression problems.
Passport Photo Size Guide
Compare this country's dimensions with other common formats.
How to print passport photos
Print at home or at a pharmacy without scaling errors.
About photo requirements
When applying for a travel document in Hong Kong, meeting the precise standards set by the Immigration Department is essential for a smooth application process. Whether you are renewing an e-Passport or applying for a first-time document, your photograph must adhere to strict international biometric standards. Ensuring your photo is compliant from the outset prevents unnecessary delays and helps you navigate the official channels with confidence.
The mandatory size for a Hong Kong passport photo is 40mm wide by 50mm high, with the head positioned centrally. You must provide a plain white background, and your expression should be neutral with eyes open and looking directly at the camera. Glasses are permitted provided they do not cause glare or obscure your eyes, but head coverings are only allowed for religious or medical reasons. Use idpic.app to ensure your framing meets these specific biometric dimensions perfectly.
See the full 40 × 50 mm §t:8267ce84§ specifications for exact dimensions, face position, and background rules.
For online applications, the Immigration Department requires a digital file in JPEG format with a file size not exceeding 5MB. The image should have a resolution of at least 600dpi to ensure clarity during the printing process. You must upload this file directly via the official Immigration Department portal when submitting your e-Passport or travel document application, ensuring the file is clear and free from any digital manipulation or heavy filters.
Common issues
The most frequent reasons for rejection in Hong Kong include uneven lighting causing shadows on the face or background, and incorrect head size proportions. Applicants often fail because their glasses frames cover part of their eyes or the background is not perfectly white. Even subtle digital editing or a non-neutral expression can lead to an immediate rejection, so it is vital to maintain a natural, untarnished appearance in every photograph.
Learn more about common passport photo rejection reasons and how to fix them, or check our passport photo size guide for a global comparison.
Local tips
While professional photo studios are widely available across Hong Kong, they can be costly for a simple passport image. Alternatively, you can utilise the self-service photo booths located at many Immigration Department offices, which are designed to meet all official requirements automatically. If you choose to take your own photo at home, ensure you stand against a plain white wall with natural lighting to avoid the common pitfalls of domestic photography.
For a step-by-step walkthrough, see our DIY passport photo guide or learn how to print passport photos at home.
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